Pep Guardiola was set to be reunited with Sanchez at Manchester City but they have pulled out

When asked by one Twitter user if City's reluctance to stump up the cash might be because the club don't want to be 'mugged off' over a gentleman's agreement, Neville replied: 'That's fine but that's emotion... City have always been aggressive and good in matching and competing for players.'

The Sky Sports pundit also made his point when a City fan questioned why he was criticising the club for not splashing the cash, when the Etihad outfit have previously come under fire for spending big on players and wages.

'If this is City's new stance and young players can come through then I would applaud,' wrote Neville.

'However city were willing to pay £60m 5 months and huge wages for this player. It seems strange they have pulled on this one.'